Undergoing bariatric surgery is a major lifestyle change that can significantly impact how you socialize with others, particularly around food and alcohol. It's important to be prepared for these changes and to develop strategies for maintaining social connections while staying true to your health goals. Here are some tips and strategies for changing how you socialize after bariatric surgery.
Communicate Your Needs: Communicate your needs and goals with friends and family. Let them know that you're committed to your health and wellness goals and that you may need to make some changes to your social activities, such as choosing different restaurants or activities.
Find Supportive Friends: Seek out friends and social groups that support your health and wellness goals. Consider joining a fitness class or a cooking group to meet like-minded individuals who share your interests.
Focus on Non-Food Activities: Plan activities that focus on non-food activities, such as hiking, sightseeing, or visiting museums. These activities can help you maintain social connections while reducing the focus on food and alcohol.
Bring Your Own Food: If you're attending a social event where food will be served, consider bringing your own food to ensure that you have healthy and appropriate options.
Plan Ahead: If you know you'll be attending an event where food or alcohol will be present, plan ahead to ensure that you have healthy and appropriate options available. Consider eating a small meal before the event to avoid overindulging, and bring your own non-alcoholic beverages.
Limit Alcohol Consumption: Bariatric surgery can impact alcohol absorption and tolerance, increasing the risk of alcohol-related complications. It's important to limit alcohol consumption and avoid binge drinking. Talk to your healthcare provider about appropriate alcohol intake after surgery.
Choose Low-Calorie Beverages: If you choose to drink alcohol, choose low-calorie options such as light beer or wine. Avoid sugary mixed drinks or high-calorie beverages.
In summary, changing how you socialize after bariatric surgery is an important aspect of maintaining your health and wellness goals. Communicating your needs, finding supportive friends, focusing on non- food activities, bringing your own food, planning ahead, limiting alcohol consumption, and choosing low- calorie beverages are all effective strategies for maintaining social connections while staying true to your health goals. Remember, you have the power to control your environment and choose social activities that support your health and wellness.